Warrington, Cordelia

CORDELIA WARRINGTON

YVETTE MONREAL

Cordelia didn’t care much for his feelings, nor did she care for insulting him. She was always honest, brutally and without consideration. Groundskeeper sounded like a dead end job, clearly the man had little prospects. It didn’t affect her much though, regardless of his job he was still a pain. He challenged her, more than she was used and it irritated her to no end...but oddly she found it almost refreshing. Either she was used to the compliancy of others or had people walk away, fed up with her petulance. Cordelia grew tired of him laughing though, for it was at her and she didn’t like it one bit. A stony expression was persistent on her face until vague confusion of his invite out threw her off.

She lightened ever so slightly, drawn to the idea of being somewhere else, for the pub was beginning to bring her down, each gulp of wine a reminder of her cousin. Pollux. She wanted to make a comment about astronomy but resisted. The taste lingered on her lips as she followed Pollux out. With a roll of her eyes at his continued sarcasm, Cordelia couldn’t help but smirk. She didn’t exactly recognize him as a member of staff, especially outside of the grounds, for he was just a stranger turning into an acquaintance. Whether she enjoyed his presence or simply bearing it until they made their destination was unknown. She was caught off guard slightly when he threw the helmet, grasping it with ease and retorted; “I think I’ll manage.” her words dry, though when he turned to get settled himself gave the helmet a funny glance. Cordelia had to move it around a few times, admittedly the large helmet a little loose, her cheeks growing pink as it almost covered her eyes before she fastened the strap.

A little huff escaped parted lips as she climbed on behind him, her petite frame unsure of the unfamiliar vehicle. She awkwardly held her hands in front of her, suddenly realising she would have to hold on. Lightly, Cordelia held onto Pollux shoulders and cleared her throat a little, but as soon as the engine revved to life she allowed her need for security to take over. Holding onto him as he began to move forward, Cordelia tensed slightly. “Be careful! Your driving better be sharper than your wit.” She called timidly, words attempting but failing cruelty, clearly showing her worry. A nervous laugh even followed, she was not used to this spontaneity. As they went, the house blocks became a blur with the speed of the motorbike beneath them. Her eyes had been shut slightly, bracing herself. Pollux smelt like cigarettes and Cordelia welcomed the fresh brisk air as they swept through the city. It felt safer than a broom, knowing at least she wouldn't fall from a great height. She found courage to peer over his shoulder, her artistic side daring to capture the image from his point of view.

"This is utterly perplexing." She whispered, succumbing to view the bizarre muggle world that surrounded them. Brown eyes glanced over the buildings, the roads becoming a little more crowded. They stopped once beside a car at a set of traffic lights and in the windows reflection, saw herself strapped to Pollux back. She hesitated momentarily when she saw herself, cheeks flushed and eyes bright beneath the heavy helmet. It was unfamiliar, unexpected. Cordelia looked at Pollux in the reflection, his form a smudge in the windows contortion. Suddenly she realised on the whole journey she hadn't thought of Teddy once, the speed and wonder making her feel different. Before she could think anymore, they had come to a stop. The town they arrived in was busy, cars and motorcycles just like Pollux' alongside of the road. She stared at the surroundings, the weird shops that seemed to have market stools set up outside, stairs leading underground to tattoo parlours and music shops. They had stopped near a large bridge that went over the road, the washed out blue boards reading Camden Lock in yellow scrawl. The walls of different shops were adorned in colour, artwork and sculptures decorating the town. It was surreal, so much so she stood staring with wild eyes.

"This is quite something...Where are we?" She asked, reaching under her chin and struggling slightly with the stubborn strap. The sun had dipped low and dark blue edges of the night bordered the skies. The air smelt like street food and incense. "Ugh, muggles are such dire creatures." She assessed loudly, scrutinizing a girl that wore tights that had more holes than material and very tall platform studded boots. Music sounded from nearby venues. "Don't walk too fast. Don't leave me...uh don't leave me wandering around." There was a nervous lilt to her words, only trying to cover it once she removed her helmet and was firmly on the ground. Cordelia was independent to no end, but in such an unfamiliar place she didn't exactly want to be left alone. With a challenging smirk, she glanced up at Pollux; "So when does it get better?"